M.H. Lair is a new contemporary single-family residence on a steep uphill lot in Montecito Heights, Los Angeles.

The physical constraints of the site, the hillside building code, and the surrounding views inspired the folded geometry of the three-story house as it unfolds from the street below to the top of the site. Like a nature trail, the circulation path winds in and out of the landscape, hugging various facets of the building and branching into the interior. The sound of pebbles in the first courtyard, located above the garage, evokes the feeling of walking through caves. From there, the path passes through the guest unit and spills back into the landscape at the main courtyard level.

The living and dining spaces are organized around an existing coral tree, while a black cinder block ribbon wall forms the backbone of the house—acting as a sound barrier, orienting views outward, and connecting a procession of public and private spaces.

The project employs reconfigurable borders and material continuity between indoors and outdoors to expand the living area beyond the building envelope. The main-level courtyard and covered patio extend the split-level dining area and sunken living room when two sets of folding doors are opened. Modular wooden boxes with linoleum tops serve as steps or seating, creating a fluid topology between spaces. The living room can be further extended by folding down the railing over the stair to the lower level, transforming the area below into a rentable unit.

On the second floor, an outdoor bathtub offers a serene overlook toward the neighboring hills from the primary suite and can be screened off with a curtain spanning the length of the balcony. The Accoya wood flooring continues seamlessly from the sleeping area into the bathroom, up the shower walls, and across the outdoor deck.